Basic Fruit Crumble

Ingredients

• 4 cups of fresh or frozen fruit (e.g., apples, berries, peaches, etc.)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the fruit)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to enhance fruit flavor)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the crumble topping)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Directions

1.  Prepare the Fruit Filling:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• If using apples or firm fruits, peel and slice them into thin wedges or pieces. For berries or softer fruits, leave them whole or halve larger pieces.

• In a bowl, combine the fruit with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Mix well to coat the fruit evenly.

2.  Make the Crumble Topping:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Some larger clumps are fine and add texture.

3.  Assemble and Bake:

• Spread the prepared fruit evenly into a baking dish (8x8 inches or a similar size).

• Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit, covering it completely.

4.  Bake the Crumble:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

• If the topping browns too quickly, you can cover loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

5.  Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

• Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.